The Miami is now open.
The Miami is now open.
Oh how we’ve missed you Miami Tavern! Closed for renovation in June this year, the historic tavern has finally reopened, much to the delight of awaiting locals.
History lesson first, The Miami Tavern/Shark Bar has occupied the same block of land for almost a century, with the visionary EH Berry opening the original Hotel Miami in 1925. Continual upgrades culminated in 1966 with the birth of The Miami Tavern, with leading Australian hospitality group ALH acquiring the venue in 1993.
Now renamed The Miami, the impressive new space has had locals intrigued for months. But wait no longer, a stylish coastal fit-out awaits.
So what’s changed? Well lovers of the charming and personality-soaked Shark Bar, you’ll find an impressive new restaurant and cafe on the top and a sleek new beachside bar on the bottom. How good.
Upstairs the interior reflects a casual, coastal vibe with light wood, furniture, white and blue accents and fresh flowers on tables. The bar, along the length of one wall, is absolutely packed with goodies and perfectly at home with peachy pink tiles and plenty of space. The outside deck, newly built and ready for summer sipping offers 180 degree views of North Burleigh beach and is probably where we will live for the rest of time.
The menu offers a modern take on some of your favourite pub dishes with plenty of fresh seafood dishes, tasty salads and sweet share boards for grazing.
The Miami Board was a five-star option with BBQ pork ribs, jerk chicken wings, crispy halloumi (HELLO), sweet potato wedges and a variety of sauces. We’d also happily eat the Crispy Fish Taco with slaw, guacamole and lemon, the Miami Poke Bowl with seaweed, ginger, teriyaki tofu, siitake, salads, edamame and soy sesame dressing AND the Wagyu Beef Burger with all of the most delicious burger toppings (including a dill pickle thank you very much).
Oh and there’s still a chicken parmigiana, seafood basket and a good old-fashioned pie (but fancy) on the menu so don’t worry about missing out on your faves.
The Grill section offers plenty of steak options for the meat lovers and there are entire sections dedicated to pizzas, salads and burgers too. It’s an impressive menu jam-packed with dishes that’ll have you returning time and time again.
Pub food at its finest you might say.
The cocktail list is equally as fun with plenty of exciting options on offer to both cool you down and have you Insta-snapping up a storm. We enjoyed the If You Musk with gin, elderflower liqueur, musk syrup, lemon juice and egg white and also the Merchant’s Wife with gin, Aperol, fresh watermelon and lime juice.
There’s a Salted Carmel Espresso Martini that comes with popcorn and that is very good time too friends.
Downstairs you’ll find a completely overhauled sports bar and TAB. Most importantly there will now be more than 22 fresh cold beers on tap (wine and other beverages still available for the non-beer friends obviously) and pool tables for deciding who’s buying the next round.
Don’t worry, there’s still heaps of space available for throwing around your best dance moves.
Spruced up in a lighter colour palette, it’s the perfect spot for a Friday arvo catch-up with your mates.
A new undercover patio, means rain, hail or shine, you’re on for arvo drinks.
If you’re as happy to see the Miami Tav back in operation as we are, get down there and give it a welcome high-five.
LOCATION: 2043-2047 Gold Coast Highway, Miami (bordered by Kelly Ave & The Esplanade)
HOURS: Monday and Saturday 10am until 2.30am, Sunday 10am until 12.30am
Words by Carly Snodgrass
Photos by Kirra Smith
How good is making new friends in a sweet, good time space while pretending to work but really just watching animal docos? So good, gang.
In an (un)surprising turn of events, you can now do all of those things at the Coast’s sweet new co-working and events space in the suburb that may just be our new fave – Miami.
The gist is this. Lemana Lane is a kind of urban, cool kids paradise that was once only home to mechanics and warehouses hording who knows what. Now though, it’s a place you definitely want to be, what with the recent opening of Hotel Miami and a coming soon gin distillery.
Hotel Miami’s creators realised the areas potential far before the rest of us, nabbed themselves a warehouse space and filled it with all kinds of goodies. There’s velvet couches, handmade desks (ask ‘em how that went down) perfect for Insta-snaps, a dartboard and best of all, a Yamaha parked right in front of a neon sign that reads “fuck yeah”.
Oh and there’s a photo studio too. See, good times.
The idea was to open a space that would allow co-owner Nick to escape from the confines of his bedroom and a cat whose actual name is Winston Smushface.
Jokes. It was so Nick, along with his fiancé Jessie (the boss) and mate Darran, could create a place to hang out with other creatives, “work” on their various other businesses and create a fun little Miami community. They adapted a community event they used to attend in Venice Beach where local businesses would come together and showcase their goods while also making rad new friends.
The point is, you can rent one of those handmade desks for a day or on a fulltime basis (recommended for bulk good times) and there are upstairs offices up for grabs too.
The photo studio can also be hired for any fun projects you’ve got going on and there’s super speedy Internet and everyone’s other favourite thing – air conditioning.
As of April 6th there’ll be an event on the first Friday of every month (dubbed First Friday to make writing about it easier) that’ll showcase local artists and finally bring Gold Coasters the live music we need and deserve.
Whether you’re in the market for a new workspace or not, get down there and check it out, the crew are keen to meet all the like-minded creatives they can muster.
And they’re not bad at hilarious banter either.
LOCATION: 1/49 Lemana Lane, Miami
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Get in loser, we’re going shopping (and eating, and brewery-hopping, and sight seeing, and exploring street art, and… you get the idea)
Now you might be wondering why we’re throwing around random movie quotes to kick off this list (in our defence there is a Mean Girls line for *every* occasion) – but if suburbs were Mean Girls characters, Miami would for sure be the one to utter this iconic line. Miami has it all, and it knows it. Take one glance at just some of the epic spots we’ve lined up and you’ll soon see why all the other suburbs wish they could be this cool.
It used to be that Granddads were good for stealing our noses and sneaking us butter candy, but in Miami, Granddad Jacks is good for plying us the finest locally distilled spirits, gin making classes, distillery tours and of course and just an all-round cool haunt to sit back with a top notch bevvy and let our mullets run free. These masterful wizards didn’t amass a whopping haul of awards by getting distracted by anything other than distilling, so it’s BYO food too (and surely that means more to spend on the good stuff!). Make sure you try the 65 Miles Gin, recently crowned the Hottest Aussie Gin for a third year in a row!
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
It would be shell-fish of us not to include Miami Fish Market, as much as we would love to keep this absolute pearl a secret. They hook the Gold Coast up with responsibly sourced, premium seafood from Australia and New Zealand (unlike heading home empty-handed from your holy grail fishing spot). Take some of their freshest and finest home to enjoy, or pull up a stool in their courtyard oyster and sashimi bar for a shuck-tastic time. Now offering a full (fancy-pants) fish and chips menu. Potato scallops and caviar, anyone?
Where: 1/54 Paradise Ave, Miami
The Coast’s OG street food night markets that put Miami on the map as a must-visit destination for foodies and live music lovers alike. The first venue of it’s kind to Miami and perhaps even the Coast, Marketta quickly grew to establish itself as a mainstay among the GC scene, bringing good vibes, live music and great food galore via the eclectic creative and cultural hotspot for over ten years now. Our beloved market brings us all our favourite tastes of the world as well as that same buzzing atmosphere that’s favoured by families especially, for rounding up their rowdy broods for an easy night out that everyone can enjoy.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami
We have a grand idea for ya! Why not take those freshly shucked oysters to-go and hit the picturesque Pizzey Park for a bougie picnic? It’s one of the biggest parks on the coast, a local icon, and a hub for sports, clubs, recreation, and fun times for all ages. There’s an aquatic centre, playgrounds galore, a wheely epic skate park, the Gold Coast’s first and Australia’s largest asphalt pump track and, let’s not forget, the off-leash dog area for our four-legged BFFs. In fact, paw out of five dogs agree that Pizzey is the best park for zoomies on the GC.
Where: 80 Pacific Ave, Miami
One of Miami’s most recent (and appreciated) additions is Bar Monte. This Italian eatery is so good it’s saving us a trip to Rome. They’re bringing the classic trattoria to us, with a modern twist, by blending international influences with fresh, local ingredients. The result is a menu as bold as it is delizioso.
The space is stylish yet inviting, striking the perfect balance between high-end sophistication and relaxed coastal charm. Pasta lovers will swoon over the Rigatoni, Vodka Sauce, Nduja and Stracciatella, and don’t even get us started on the wine list; curated by world-renowned sommelier Andrea Martinisi.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
It’s no secret us Gold Coasters are quite partial to doing what we can to our put our best #lewks forward, and over the last few years the streets of Miami have also been undergoing somewhat of a glow up themselves (and #spoileralert – there’s no filler to be found here folks). The suburb is at the heart of a thriving GC art and cultural boom, with a bunch of incredible artists transforming the local laneways into a destination in and of themselves. There’s even the Art Roll website dedicated to mapping out the best routes for your own self-led street art tour.
And the event that started the movement, Surface Festival returns at the end of June, set to transform the local footpaths, fence lines, laneways and walls with some art-mazing fresh new works to admire and we’re here. for. it.
Where: Check the Art Roll website for locations
Okay, now it just feels like Miami is showing off and 501 (no kidding) Google reviews can’t be wrong. At first glance those deceptively colourful trademark stairs might look all sunshine and rainbows, but one thing’s for sure – conquer that climb and you will be rewarded with one of the best vantages on the coast. With stunning views of the coastline from Surfers right down to Burleigh, there’s only one thing left to say: How’s. the. serenity. (and maybe a hearty dose of *heavy breathing* depending on how many times you decide to take on those stairs #cardi-no thanks)
Where: At the south end of Miami (you can’t miss it)
If you love a good smash burger (and let’s be real, who doesn’t?), Broken Hearts Burger Club in Miami is calling your name. Born from one guy’s lockdown obsession with nailing the perfect LA-style burger, this cult-favourite joint keeps things simple – and seriously delicious. Choose between a classic or fancy burger, stack it up with one, two, or three patties, and let the molten cheese and house-made pickles do the talking. Throw in some loaded fries, a thick shake, and that retro diner aesthetic, and you’ve got yourself a one-way ticket to burger heaven. #sorrynotsorry
Where: 1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Move over, high-rise hotels – motels of the Gold Coast are getting a makeover, and boy, are they impressing. Exhibit A- The Shores Miami. Nestled just 200 metres from Miami Beach, this 1970s Gold Coast gem has recently undergone a multi-million dollar transformation, blending retro vibes with modern comfort to create its perfect nostalgic charm.
Inside, find bright, modern rooms, orange sun lounges with overhead striped cabanas, a gorgeous pool, lush greenery, and soothing pastel colours. Outside; endless adventure, starting with this list! Staycation, anyone?
Where: 2016 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
There will always be room on the Gold Coast and in our hearts for another coffee roastery (get rid of the servos; we just need coffee). However, by no means is Whyld ‘just another’ coffee bar, channelling the strength of a triple espresso since 2021. That’s what we’re talking about! They promise ‘genuine connection fuelled by bloody good coffee’ and serve it up in a warehouse space/micro-roastery cuter than your grandma’s knitted blankets. Take your organic specialty coffee to go, or take a seat on one of their vintage couches and soak up the good vibes (the recommended take).
Where: 8/43 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
You can’t beat having a neighbourhood bakery (a carb-load close to home), particularly a European-inspired one. An ideal day on a plate for us would look like a warm, buttery fruit Danish for breakfast (washed down with a mighty good coffee), a ham, cheese and pickle baguette sandwich for lunch, followed by a basket full of buttery, flaky pastries for dessert. No veggie in sight! He he.
Where: Shop 5/1934 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
Japanese beer + Japanese street eats = heaven. Therefore, heaven can be found in Miami at the suburbs’ very own Japanese beer bar, Roji Cat. Here, you’ll be transported (at Shinkansen speed) to the neon-lit districts of Tokyo and Osaka, with an interior decorated to resemble their authentic alleyways, down to the signage and lanterns.
What else will you find? Twelve Japanese brews on tap and twenty-four types of sake, for starters! Then there’s the nosh, a curation of elevated Japanese street food that’ll have you sighing ‘oishii’, with every bite. Think Robata Skewers, sweet and spicy Roji Cat Karaage, Gyoza, Sashimi, Miso Corn (love you) and burgers including a Bug Burger with a tempura Moreton Bay Bug, spicy Japanese coleslaw and Kewpie mayo. We’ll take all of that, thank you so much.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
It’s almost time to pack away the budgie smugglers and slip into something a little more cosy as we edge closer to the cooler months. Enter UGG Since 1974 – churning out wearable warm hugs for your feet since, well, 1974. Don’t be feeling sheepish if you didn’t know they’ve expanded their range to include a huge selection of colours, styles and options to customise including monogramming (cute!), as well as paw-dorable pet accessories (even cuter!) With factory tours running right out of Miami, the only thing better than supporting locals is treating your tootsies to a cloud-nine experience in the process.
Where: 23 Christine Ave, Miami
Have you worked up a thirst reading this list? Thankfully, we’ve saved everyone’s favourite brewery (yep, we called it) for last- Precinct Brewing Co. Step through their doors and you’ll be welcomed into one sleek space; all white with high ceilings, wooden beams, a couple more murals and some massive brew kettles in the background of it all. You can see why people say it’s the place to beer! Don’t forget to grab one of the tasty pizzas coming from the onsite kitchen, too…
Where: 17 Christine Ave, Miami
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Finding places to kick back in an outdoor space with live music can sometimes be a little mission here on the Gold Coast. You either have amazing open-air spaces and no music or great live music but indoors. Finding the two combined should be a welcome find then; throw in some great food and tasty drinks, and you should be onto a winner, right?
Well, low and behold, since opening last week, Spec in Miami appears to be ticking all of those boxes!
The new venue has taken over the space that was once home to the vegan-friendly and whitewashed Love Child Collective just south of Nobbys Beach on the Gold Coast Highway. We won’t lie; we were sad to see The LC close its doors some time back. However, this story has a happy ending. With Love Child Kitchen & Bar moving itself further up into Mermaid Beach and Spec setting up shop, we have the best of both worlds.
If the darker feel and décor are anything to go by for Spec, it promises a more mature and mixed offering than its predecessor. With a big emphasis on delivering what all great Gold Coast venues should: beautiful spaces with excellent service and captivating menu items.
Perhaps the most eye-catching part of Spec is its rather sizeable and vibrant mural depicting an excited/upset bear (open to interpretation) from local creative designer/muralist Kiel Tillman. Seriously, what this guy can do makes us totally in awe of the true talent artists have. What’s the inspiration behind a bear, you might wonder? We’re told, one of the owners is a full-time special forces soldier who spends much time stationed overseas in a unit nicknamed ‘The Bears,” hence the name. Spec also stands for specifications, which are integral in bringing cocktails to life and getting flavoursome recipes together. Without them, your tastebuds would be at a loss!
Spec’s overall vibe is industrial with a slice of refinery and a sprinkling of masculine charm. Inside there are some leather couches that just beg to be slipped into whilst sipping one of their S.O.B. cocktails, a tequila inspired old fashioned-esque short drink. High tables offer the perfect opportunity to catch up over locally made beers and lose track of time. Whilst copious outdoor space — front and back — means basking in the afternoon sun with French Rosé and grazing on a dynamic menu is a welcomed opportunity.
Food-wise the menu has a slight leaning towards Mexican with delicious Tacos of the pork, beef and fish variety and other associated spicy fresh flavours. You’ll also see a nod to European favourites with a Sweet Sicilian Bruschetta, Baked Brie, Patatas Bravas and Pea & Feta Arancini Balls.
Open every morning from 7am as a coffee bar, lunch and dinner kicks off from Wednesday through to Sunday. On the horizon, Spec plans to hold open-air movie nights by a projector in their back garden space as well as regular live music. In doing so, they plan to capture some of the crowd that migrates between Nobbys Beach and Miami. And with a pending application for a 2am liquor license, this could become a new favourite late-night hangout for those who like to stay up past their bedtime. You might just have to reschedule that sunrise jog, we’re afraid.
Where: 2176 Gold Coast Highway, Miami
When: Coffee Bar 7 days 7am – 11am | Kitchen & Bar Wed-Sun 11am – late
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
